Introverts How to Know If a Companys Culture Is for You - Introvert Whisperer

Introvert Whisperer / Introverts How to Know If a Companys Culture Is for You - Introvert Whisperer Introverts: How to Know If a Companys Culture Is for You Workplace burnout. We’re all prone to it, but since the most widely accepted definition of burnout is “an individual’s response to chronic emotional and interpersonal stressors within the workplace,” you can see why introverts may have been dealt an unfair hand of workplace burnout issues. Thankfully, companies and their cultures have been slowly shifting to be more aware and inclusive of their introverted employees’ needs so burnout doesn’t become an HR nightmare. As an introvert seeking employment, how do you know if a particular company complements your personality? If you have been questioning your career decision, here are a few things that will typically tip off an introvert’s warning system: Open air cubicles and glass-only conference rooms (vulnerable to attack by small talk) An expectation to participate in daily cheers or challenges (or anything else that could be deemed a waste of time or unnecessary to one’s productivity) Brainstorming sessions (introverts are always internally brainstorming anyway) Bragging about this year’s company retreat full of fun team-building activities (a HARD no) Ask Smart Questions and Listen for Silent Answers When it’s time to dig deeper into company culture, it’s time to pull out the big questions and spur a few moments of thoughtful reflection that may not happen otherwise. Questions such as the following are sure to work (you may need to finesse the wording a bit as to not come across as stingy or cranky): Are all of these mandatory meetings really necessary and actually accomplishing your goals as an employer? Am I expected to participate in (and be happy about) games, skits, exercises, or entertainment and amusement of any variety? Is quiet productivity valued or must I announce everything I do over the loudspeaker in order to be noticed, valued, and promoted? Do you realize that introverts often have brilliant ideas and strategies and can even be amazing managing and leaders if given the opportunity? When listening to the answers, do what introverts do bestobserve and listen for the silent answers. They’re the little things many others don’t even notice, that are painfully obvious to most introverts. Natural at exhibiting heightened observational skills, there are some downsides to this introvert “superpower.” Higher stress levels, overstimulation, an inability to relax, always reading between the lines, constantly thinking, and feeling too deeply are common side effects of intense awareness. By channeling that observational tendency, you’ll be able to tell pretty quickly if a company’s culture is going to be a good fit. Did you catch the co-worker’s eye roll? Did you hear a pause? Did you see that finger twitch? Did you notice nervousness? Yes, the introvert did. Declare (Quietly) Your Right to Peacefully Coexist with Extroverts It’s not like an extrovert-centric workplace was purposely created just to exclude introvertsit’s just what happens sometimes as a byproduct of our nation’s extrovert-rewarded culture. However, you don’t need to stay silent when you feel uncomfortable nor should you assume everyone should already know what type of actions and inactions you prefer. Be politely vocal about how you (and others like you) would like to be considered when office culture and expectations are the topics of discussion. For example, can some communique take place over email and text rather than by sudden cubicle pop-ins? Can certain activities, or at least the level of involvement in them, be optional? Can there be more flexibility with remote work? Can productivity-based metrics be on equal footing with engagement-based metrics? Can employee training programs include training for how introverts and extroverts can better work alongside each other? Take a Deep Breath and Accept Imperfection The fact is, no company culture is perfect for introvertsthat’s why so many work alone from home (or would at least prefer to if given the option). The standard of what makes a true introvert feel comfortable and most productive can be so narrow that it is difficult for even the most introvert-aware company to accommodate fully. If you find yourself at the point where everything and everyone are driving you to the brink of burnout or breakdown, you know it’s time to take a step back and take a deep breath. If left alone 100% of the time, hermit-ism will soon set in. As good as that may sound at times, you know better. Being alone is lonely and introverts usually experience too much loneliness as it is. So, since you don’t want to extricate yourself from the world, you must accept its imperfections, which includes company culture. After you’ve aligned yourself with a company that is aware of and accepting of introverts and you have spoken up for yourself, it may be time to swallow your pride and allow yourself to thrive regardless of the surrounding extroverts. Besides, teamwork may even be good for you (even though you don’t want to admit it)! Author Bio: Annabelle Smyth is a freelance writer who covers everything from HR to technology and team building. Her most recent work involves partnership marketing with CMOE where she has had the opportunity to learn about the relationship between leadership and successful businesses. Go to top Do you know what your next career step is?  Many people don’t. I want to help you accelerate your career by connecting you with your Free Instant Access to my eBook on how to construct your Career SMART Goals â€" that will help you put together your actions and keep you accountable. Get your copy now and start your action plan today! Brought to you by Dorothy Tannahill-Moran â€" dedicated to unleashing your professional potential. Introvert Whisperer